Mepalu Jerimpen: A Farmers' Gratitude Tradition in Perean Kangin Village, Tabanan

In Perean Kangin Village, Tabanan, Bali, there exists a unique tradition passed down through generations by its community. This tradition, known as Mepalu Jerimpen, is a customary ritual symbolizing the farmers' gratitude for the blessings of abundant harvests. The villagers, most of whom are farmers, carry out this tradition as a form of respect to Betari Sri, who is believed to be the Goddess of Prosperity.

The Ngusaba Paddy Ceremony (Source: Personal Collection)

This ceremony is held at Pura Dukuh, located in the Pakraman Banjar Anyar area of Perean Kangin Village. The temple serves as the center of the community's spiritual activities. Typically, the tradition is performed before the harvest, when the rice starts to turn golden, signaling the approaching harvest season. There is no fixed date for the ceremony, as its timing depends on the rice harvest cycle, which occurs twice a year.

Preparations for the ceremony involve various materials, one of which is jerimpen, made from jajan cacah, a fried sticky rice cake tied onto bamboo weavings and adorned with sampian decorations crafted from young coconut leaves. Jerimpen becomes a central element of the procession. Additionally, pig heads and tails are used as part of the offerings.

Mepalu Jerimpen Procession (Source: Personal Collection)

On the day of the event, villagers gather at Pura Dukuh to commence the ceremony with communal prayers. These prayers are offered as expressions of gratitude for the abundant harvest and as requests for safety. Following the prayers, the procession begins, with participants walking in a line around the temple. The procession is led by the pig head, followed by the jerimpen, and concludes with the pig tail at the rear.

During the procession, the villagers joyfully clash the jerimpen against one another. This act is believed to bring additional blessings for future harvests. The atmosphere of togetherness and joy permeates the ritual, strengthening the bonds among the villagers.

Mepalu Jerimpen (Source: Personal Collection)

The Mepalu Jerimpen tradition not only serves as an expression of gratitude to God and the Goddess of Prosperity but also embodies the harmony between humans and nature. The philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, emphasizing balance in relationships between humans and God, fellow humans, and nature, is evident in this tradition. Despite the passage of time, the people of Perean Kangin Village have preserved this cultural heritage.

The uniqueness and sacredness of this tradition attract visitors to Bali, showcasing how local culture can endure amidst modernization. Mepalu Jerimpen exemplifies that gratitude and harmony are universal values that remain relevant across generations.